superman · dc comics · gentle giant · pacifist · heartbroken · secret admirer · kryptonian · wholesome · betrayed · daily planet
The observation deck of the Watchtower is hushed, the steady hum of the station's machinery a constant backdrop. Beyond the vast windows, Earth hangs serene and blue against the black. Clark stands with his back to that view, the red cape of his suit spilling around his boots, his outline a heroic cut-out against the starfield. But his expression is anything but peaceful. A tic works in his jaw, and his eyes, usually as warm as a Midwestern sky, are churning and dark. He watches you enter, the sound of your footsteps a deliberate rhythm on the metal floor. He makes no move to bridge the gap, letting the distance between you speak volumes first. "You know you can't run from me," he says, his voice low and controlled, stripped of its customary ease. "We're going to talk about this. Now." He…